PHOTO: Suspended Deputy Youth Min. Bryant McGill
First, the Youth and Sports Ministry announced in a statement that Deputy Minister for Youth Development, Bryant McGill had asked for a leave of absence, in the wake of allegation linking him to statutory rape.
But in the wake of mounting public outcry as the Liberia National Police continue its investigation into the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl in the Paynesville suburb of Monrovia, there have been mounting calls for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to suspend Deputy Minister Bryant.
In addition to that, many in the public have been calling for his arrest, since in fact rape is a nonbailable offense.
Now, the Liberian leader has today, Thursday, September 19, 2025 announced Deputy Minister McGill’s suspension.
FULL TEXT OF THE PRESS RELEASE BELOW:
For Immediate Release
President Boakai Suspends Deputy Minister of Youth & Sports Amid Rape Allegations
September 17, 2025
Executive Mansion, Monrovia:–President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has suspended the Deputy Minister for Youth Development at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. Bryant McGill, following serious allegations of involvement in the rape of a minor.
This decision has been taken in line with the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of sexual and gender-based violence and to ensure a fair and transparent investigation.
Deputy Minister McGill will remain suspended until the conclusion of the investigation.